A LOCAL visual artist has developed a new installation representing women from Cumbria. 

Unearthed is a vibrant installation of oversized paper wildflowers representing ten extraordinary women by Kendal-based visual artist Amy Williams.

Produced with local community groups over a six-month period, the installation unearths hidden or lesser-known stories of women from Cumbrian history, who through their skill, dedication and compassion brought about positive social change.

Bold and theatrical, the installation takes visual inspiration from the flora and fauna found in Blackwell’s historic Arts & Crafts interiors, creating a larger than life indoor botanic garden.

The Westmorland Gazette: The commission is part of Blackwell’s New Year New Make series, bringing craftspeople together with communities to create new work that encourages dialogue and new ways of thinking, said - Naomi Gariff, Programme Curator, Lakeland Arts.The commission is part of Blackwell’s New Year New Make series, bringing craftspeople together with communities to create new work that encourages dialogue and new ways of thinking, said - Naomi Gariff, Programme Curator, Lakeland Arts. (Image: Lakeland Arts)

The intricate wildflower sculptures pay homage to each of the women chosen by Williams. From activist Winifred Langton (1909-2003) who tirelessly campaigned for social justice, to Arts & Crafts designer Annie Garnett (1864-1942), whose Windermere-based weaving workshop, The Spinnery, sought to create well paid jobs for the region’s working class.

The women remembered in this space lived very different lives, in different eras, but are united by the common thread of wanting to make a difference to their world.

The installation explores the symbolism of flowers as an act of remembrance and as representations of femininity, resilience and resistance.

Amy Williams said: "For me it feels important to be able to shine a light on these extraordinary women and to commemorate their lives through this visual medium.

"I’m pleased we’ve been able to coordinate the exhibition to run across Women’s History Month, especially given this year’s theme of 'Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.' 

"I love the setting of Blackwell and am looking forward to transforming the space into a delightful wonderland. I’m grateful to Naomi Gariff, the curator, for giving me so much creative freedom to fulfil this vision. It’s a special thing as an artist to be given this opportunity."

As part of the installation, Willams has worked with community groups across South Lakeland to create a ‘community garden’ of smaller paper flowers.

Participants were encouraged to share stories and to create a flower sculpture that pays tribute to an extraordinary Cumbrian of their choice.

The project is supported by James Cropper, who have been producing world-class paper from their mill in Kendal since 1845. It has also been supported by the Westmorland Arts Trust Fund via Cumbria Community Fund, whose support has enabled Williams to engage more deeply and widely with the community.

The exhibition is open to the public from 27 January until 4 June 2023.